Read More

Instead, a Stoke triple sub helped the visitors back in and Tyrese Campbell, Mame Diouf and Peter Crouch linked up for the latter to equalise and secure a replay – provisionally set for Tuesday, January 15 (8pm).

"We intercepted really well, went to break and didn't quite get the final shot or action, which is something we really need to improve on to punish them as they were there to be punished,” Ricketts told the Shropshire Star.

"It's testament to us they had to make a triple substitution to get back into the game. They have the ability bring on the likes of Peter Crouch. It was an awkward finish by Crouchy, but a very good one."

Sam Ricketts, manager of Shrewsbury Town, congratulates his players after the FA Cup Third Round match against Stoke City at New Meadow. (Image: Sam Ricketts)

He added: "The last little piece missing to that was to get through to the next round. We were so close. I don't think we pushed Stoke but we had the better chances. We had a really good chance to go 2-0 up.

"We forced them into efforts from longer range, you're asking for something special to score against us rather than a tap in. I'm disappointed with the goal. It's a minute little bit of detail how I like to defend crosses. We didn't quite do that and we got punished for it.

"I can't fault the players' desire, determination, willingness to keep working and stick to the game plan was outstanding.

Read More

Shrewsbury’s afternoon had a sour start when forward Lenell John-Lewis needed to be stretchered off in the 13th minute. He left the pitch to applause from all four stands – and left stadium wearing a knee brace and using crutches.

Grant said: "Everybody loves Lenny. A few boys had tears in their eyes, obviously. Hopefully he'll mend very soon."